Let me be your trip coordinator!
About Me
I am an Early Years teacher and a lifelong traveler. I first visited Vienna and Budapest briefly in May of 2002. I loved Vienna, and Budapest absolutely took my breath away. In 2010, my husband and I moved to Košice, Slovakia – a city we had never heard of – to teach for a year and felt like we had moved home. Early in that year, we found ourselves an easy train trip away from Budapest, and went often for day trips, or as a jumping-off point for other European journeys. We also had opportunities to visit other parts of Slovakia, including its capital, Bratislava, and areas near the Tatra Mountains.
Since then, we’ve found ourselves drawn back again and again, in part because of the friends we made there, and in part due to the amazing scenery and attractions, the atmosphere, and the food. As often happens when we find something we love, I have been looking for a way to share this amazing part of the world with others.
- Lisa Johnson
Flexible Group Experience
In 2016, I went to Peru on just about the best group experience I could have imagined. Our coordinator booked all of our transportation and accommodations, and big attractions like Machu Picchu. But in many parts of the trip, we had the option to be on our own. Most arrangements were made for us, but there was also a lot of flexibility and free time. That experience inspired what I have in mind for this trip.
I have put together detailed itineraries for almost all the days of our trip, but I won’t be planning for all of your waking minutes. In each destination, we will stay together for at least the first day. At some points, you will need to make choices about how you want to spend your time, after which we will arrange a time and place to meet as a group again. If you want to linger or explore longer than those arranged times, you can always meet us at the next time and place on the schedule.
Towards the end of every day, we’ll have an opportunity to gather and reflect on the day we just had and look forward to the plans for the next day. Unless something has been booked with a particular start time, you are welcome to go through each day at your own pace. Include as much or as little of the suggested itineraries as you want.
House of Music Hungary
Get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Artizán Bakery, Budapest
While I’m not a travel agency, I’m passionate about organizing a vacation for you based on my own adventures in this beautiful region. What makes this journey exciting is the chance to customize your experience, whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to exploring.
On our travels, you'll experience a mix of air, rail, and road journeys. Our activities will vary in pace and terrain, offering both energetic excursions and relaxing moments to appreciate your surroundings. While I encourage your fullest participation, it’s essential to listen to your body and adjust your plans as needed. Keep in mind that this is a voluntary adventure for responsible adults and accompanied minors. Before we set off, I recommend ensuring you're in good physical and mental shape to make the most of this trip.
Embrace the journey! While things may not always go as planned—especially with transportation and unpredictable weather—these moments can open doors to exciting alternatives. For a smoother experience, stay aware of your surroundings and watch your belongings. Respecting local customs and laws enriches our travels and helps build positive connections with the amazing service providers we meet.
Pack your bags and bring your sense of adventure! The journey is full of possibilities, so get ready to adapt, discover, and enjoy every twist and turn of this incredible experience!
Testimonial
"My trip with Muckle Plum Journeys was a fulfilling experience which included tours and stays in beautiful locations and a curated culinary tour of delicious local food and drinks. Highlights included seeing the Kiss in Vienna, visiting the thermal baths in Budapest, and enjoying a delicious cappuccino every morning. Lisa organized the trip artfully, and adapted plans to conditions and circumstances as necessary. Highly recommend!"
- BH